The Stranglers- Suite XVI

Have you ever liked something and had no idea why you like it? That's sort of how I feel about The Stranglers new release, Suite XVI. From beginning to end it's got a nice sound to it. Every track is solid, has a good beat, and some rich hearty vocals. I think part of what got my attention is how Summat Outanowt just jumped out at me after the first 3 tracks had passed by. As nicely as the whole disc moves along, Bless You (Save you, Spare you, Damn you) was very cool in that it was a journey unto itself.
Particularly refreshing are how groups still manage to put together a cohesive disc in this itunes age. As singles detach and meander all over the web, some discs do a good job at just being themselves. There's a lot to be said for that.
I also got a kick out of I Hate You. A song that lives up to its title in every way. No beating around the bush here.
As a group, The Stranglers have done a wonderful job adapting. Their sound has evolved ever so gently and gradually, so as not to cause your shorts to ride up when listening to a new disc for the first time. Yea verily, in fact, has their disc been transported to earth, whereupon it was deemed good, and all listened and absorbed.
From the book of Adam, psalms 3, 8, and 69. So it was written, so it shall be.

An A- is in order this day. For this is a fine band making fine music. Go listen.